Showtime's Head Of Acquisitions And Distribution Matthew Duda To Retire

Showtime Networks’ Matthew Duda, EVP Program Acquisitions, Planning and Distribution, is retiring after 31 years at the network. During his tenure, Duda forged and managed output deals with major studios including DreamWorks, Paramount, Disney, New Line, MGM, Lionsgate, Summit Entertainment, Miramax, CBS Films and The Weinstein Co. “For over thirty years, Matthew has been one of the leading voices in our programming group,” said Matthew Blank, chairman and CEO of Showtime Networks. Added entertainment president David Nevins: “He is a person of talent and integrity, and a true expert in his field. I will forever be grateful for all that he has taught me since I joined the company.”

Once a major bidder for movie output product, Showtime made a shift toward original programming several years ago when its remaining pacts with big Hollywood studios — including Paramount, MGM and Lionsgate — expired and weren’t renewed. The network later inked smaller output deals with such companies as Weinstein Co and Summit, which now is part of Lionsgate. “I am grateful to have had the experience of working with amazing people at an incredible company for over half of my life, and I am now looking forward to the next chapters in my life’s journey,” said Duda. Duda was instrumental in the launch of the Sundance Channel in 1996, working closely with the Sundance Institute, and oversaw the acquisition of independent and art-house product for that channel until its purchase by Rainbow Media in 2008.

3 Comments

PK •

Retire or become a professional poker player? Go Duda!

Steve Rubin •

A true gentleman who will be missed. And to Matt, himself ….”Is there something wrong with your eyes, Mister?”

Alex •

They forgot to add the TriStar half of Sony as well among his contributing deals during his run. Hopefully, whoever replaces him can get some output old and/or new instead of the obscure indies they’ve been playing lately especially since they lose Summit to HBO soon. They can’t thrive on Dexter et al alone.